Student Exchange and Field Research Program between HUAF and Tottori University, Japan

The delegation from Tottori University was led by Professor Kazunobu Tsutsui, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Regional Sciences and Honorary Professor of Hue University. His participation underscored the long-standing collaboration and close academic relationship between the two universities.

At HUAF, the program was organized under the direction of the University Board of Rectors and coordinated by the Office of Science, International Cooperation, and Library, with academic support from Dr. Hoang Dung Ha, Dr. Tran Thi Anh Nguyet, and MSc. Duong Ngoc Phuoc from the Faculty of Rural Development, together with members of the Student English Club.

 

Prof. Tsutsui Kazunobu and Prof. Naka Tomomi from Tottori University
 

During the program, students from Tottori University had the opportunity to explore various aspects of rural life in Vietnam, where livelihoods are closely associated with agricultural production, community-based tourism, and natural resource management.

The program combined theoretical sessions with practical field activities. Students were introduced to topics such as rural development, agricultural value chains, and community tourism, and subsequently applied their knowledge in field research. The delegation conducted a survey at Quang Tho II Agricultural Cooperative, where they gained hands-on experience in agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation and processing of pennywort products. Students also engaged in direct discussions with local farmers and cooperative leaders to better understand the role of cooperatives in rural development.

In addition, the delegation studied the value chain of agricultural products and the One Commune One Product (OCOP) program, identifying key characteristics, potentials, and challenges in the development of local product brands. They also visited a community-based tourism and nature conservation model in Dan Dien village (formerly Quang Loi commune) to gain insights into the integration of economic development and environmental conservation.
 

A notable highlight of the program was the collaborative research component, in which each group consisted of one Vietnamese and one Japanese student. These groups jointly formulated research questions, collected data through interviews, surveys, and field observations, and presented their findings at the end of the program. The presentations reflected strong academic effort and demonstrated the students’ ability to work collaboratively in an international and interdisciplinary environment.
 

Theoretical classes at HUAF


Theoretical classes at HUAF


Practice session on the centella field at Quang Tho II Agricultural Cooperative
 

Beyond academic and research activities, students from Tottori University experienced the vibrant student life at HUAF, participated in English Club activities, enjoyed Hue’s local cuisine, explored Vietnamese culture, and visited Hue’s historical and cultural landmarks, including the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Trang Tien Bridge.

At the conclusion of the program, participating students were awarded Certificates of Completion in recognition of their efforts and achievements. The success of this program reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry and Tottori University, Japan.
 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Duc – Rector of HUAF delivered a speech at Quang Tho II Agricultural Cooperative during the closing ceremony of the program


Director of Quang Tho II Agricultural Cooperative delivered a speech at the program’s closing ceremony
 

The exchange not only provided participants with valuable academic and research experience but also fostered mutual understanding, friendship, and international cooperation between the younger generations of both countries. It served as a foundation for expanding future collaborative initiatives in education, research, and sustainable rural development.

Some photos from the program: